[39F] Experiencing stomach pain and various other symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.

  • Treatment of IBS typically involves long-term strategies to manage symptoms, including dietary adjustments, medication, and stress management.

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management and healthy lifestyle habits.

• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.

  • Treatment generally relies on lifelong use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet. Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

  • Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage.

What you can do

1. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your doctor understand what's triggering your symptoms. Note what you eat and drink, your physical activity, your mood, and the severity and timing of your symptoms.
2. Try dietary changes: Some people find that certain foods trigger their IBS symptoms. Common triggers include dairy products, alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners and certain types of carbohydrates.
3. Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms of IBS, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help manage stress, which can exacerbate these conditions.
4. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), might help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent constipation.
6. Seek professional help: It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms worsen or don't improve with self-care
• If you develop new symptoms
• If you experience unintended weight loss, fever, or persistent or severe pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.